If you’ve experienced recurrent pregnancy loss, you know the pain and devastation it can cause. Recurrent pregnancy loss is typically defined as three consecutive pregnancies lost in the first 20 weeks of development. Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is a common problem that affects 3-5% of couples trying to conceive. Research findings show that at least one in every hundred women experience RPL. If you have experienced multiple miscarriages, it may be time to talk to a specialist in recurrent pregnancy loss Mountain View.
What Are The Causes?
The cause is often never found, but about 50% of the time, it’s due to chromosomal abnormalities (like Down Syndrome) in the fetus. Because RPL can be caused by genetics, testing for further issues should be considered after three losses.
Hormone fluctuations are one of the most common reasons for women experiencing RPL. If you have a thyroid disorder, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), or diabetes, these can increase your risk of recurrent pregnancy loss. Other causes include uterine abnormalities, clotting disorders, and immunologic problems.
How Is It Diagnosed?
You’ll be asked about your pregnancy history, including dates and how far along you were at the time of each miscarriage. Your doctor will then give you a physical exam to check for abnormalities. They may also order a blood test to check for hormone imbalances and clotting disorders. A pelvic ultrasound is often done to look for uterine abnormalities.
How Is It Treated?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer for treating recurrent pregnancy loss, but most couples will need some form of assistance. If a chromosomal abnormality is found, then genetic counseling may be recommended.
If the cause is hormone-related, your doctor may prescribe medication to correct the imbalance. For example, if you have a thyroid disorder, you would be treated with thyroid medication.
If there is an immunologic problem, treatment may revolve around the medications recommended to help your body accept pregnancy. Clotting disorders can be severe and may require intensive treatment or surgery.
In cases where medical intervention is at fault, you’ll need to find a new doctor and start with infertility testing and treatments.
How Can I Increase My Odds?
You may also have to wait several months before trying for another baby, though this varies from one person to another.
It’s also wise to see your doctor right away if you discover that you’re pregnant again because there’s an increased risk of miscarriage at that point. Yes, it can seem like a dark cloud is hanging over your head, but remember that new treatments and technologies are available to help you conceive.
In summary, recurrent pregnancy loss refers to the state of having at leat three consecutive miscarriages. There are many causes but it is mainly attributed to chromosomal abnormalities. A doctor will conduct a blood test and physical exam to diagnose it. Treatment mainly involves counseling and medication depending on the cause. Visiting your doctor early in your pregnancy can help you improve your chances of carrying the pregnancy to term.